Root Canals

Don’t Fear the Root Canal – It Can Save your Teeth!

No medical procedure has gotten as bad of a reputation as root canal treatment. However, it’s a relatively painless procedure while it’s happening, and it serves a valuable purpose, so much of that fear is unfounded. If you face the option of either losing your teeth or undergoing a root canal procedure, choosing the root canal procedure can save time, money, and your tooth compared to other options.

When Would I Need Root Canal Therapy?

Inside each tooth is the pulp, soft tissue which provides nutrients and nerves to the tooth and runs like a thread down through the root. When cavities or cracks damage the enamel of teeth, bacteria can enter the pulp and cause infection. In addition to being extremely painful, diseased pulp tissue can die and spread through the root to the bone tissue below. Without root canal therapy, patients are at risk of losing their infected tooth.

What can I Expect During Root Canal Treatment?

At Oakland Family Dental, we know that root canal therapy can be an intimidating treatment for any patient – that’s why Dr. Sheehan focuses on educating patients on the entire process before treatment. During root canal therapy, After the dentist removes the pulp, the root canal is cleaned and sealed off to protect it. Then your dentist places a crown over the tooth to help make it stronger.

During root canal therapy, Dr. Sheehan makes a small hole behind the infected tooth and uses specialized instruments to remove infected pulp tissue. The inner tooth cavity is then cleaned and sealed off to prevent further reinfection. Once your tooth has healed, our Waterford dentist will place a crown over the tooth to reinforce your bite and to protect the tooth from additional damage. While your tooth may be sensitive right after treatment, these symptoms subside within a few day.

Are Root Canals Painful?

While root canals are assumed to be a painful procedure, many of our Waterford patients are pleased to find that modern root canals are quick and painless. Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort involving one to three visits. Best of all, it can save your tooth and preserve your smile!

A Root Canal from Oakland Family Dental Can Save your Damaged Tooth!

While the idea can seem overwhelming, root canal therapy is a highly effective procedure that can save your smile from more severe complications down the line. If you’re experiencing toothaches or sensitivity, contact Oakland Family Dental today to see if a root canal can help you!